Busy times!

I just returned from the Texas Library Association conference, which was in Austin this year. I met teens, librarians, authors, editors, and agents who were all equally excited about BOOKS. A great moment: talking to Richard Peck!

The SCBWI-Houston conference is always a wonderful event because of the lovely, hard-working people who do such an amazing job of pulling this event together. This year’s conference on April 9th was my last as a Houstonian so it had special significance for me. I also had the opportunity to critique manuscripts for attendees; it was a pleasure getting a glimpse into the imaginations of these creative people! A special thanks to editor Abby Ranger, whose presentation triggered some A-ha! moments for me about my Work in Progress.

I did my first SKYPE school visit! Author/teacher Kate Messner asked if I’d answer questions for her Creative Writing class. What an awesome group of writers Kate has there – and they had great questions. If you’re a teacher and interested in booking an author for a SKYPE visit, click here to see a list of available authors.

The Texas A&M Monday Book Club has been meeting since the 1970s. A couple of weeks ago, I had the privilege of returning to College Station (I’m a 1980 graduate of A&M) and speaking to the book club. Thanks so much to Ann Busch and all the ladies for being so welcoming! Afterward, I visited the Texas A&M University Press. Thanks to friend and director Charles Backus for giving me the tour.

Happy April, everyone!